Stand at Cornith

by P.M. Griffin

Federation Navy Chief Admiral Jack Dundee is sent to the planet Cornith for medical R&R following intense combat in space, but he finds little rest. Beginning with a near disaster at the planeting field minutes after setting down, Dundee and his comrades, Lieutenant Mike Sandpiper and Stellar Patrol Colonel Sybil Hunt, face death from difficult spacers, aberrant winds, and enormous waves. Even more terrifying is their discovery of a massive Arcturian invasion armada whose size and power will ensure the Federation’s utter defeat in the decades-long War should it reach their ultrasystem intact. With only thirty-four small Stellar Patrol ships and armed civilian freighters at his disposal, he must draw upon ancient naval tactics and perfect timing to delay the attacking force until the help he has summoned is able reach them. Can even the brilliant and famed Gray Jack Dundee pull it off?

375 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 2, 2014

About the author

Longer name: Pauline M. Griffin

Reviews

[Jane Lebak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stand at Cornith works as a kind-of prequel to the Star Commandos series, but you don't need to have read the Star Commandos books in order to understand it. (You'll wonder why they keep talking about Sogan, but not a big deal.) The premise is that the Federation's top military mind, Admiral Jack Dundee, is injured during a battle and sent to a little backwater planet for some R&R. While there, he uncovers a plot by the Arcturians that will win them the war, so with a ragtag fleet of 34 tiny ships, he has to hold off the Arcturian armada.

Griffin's military writing is excellent as always (I've read the Star Commandos books) and there's plenty of tactics and excitement in the strategies and tactics. The ending is wrenching and fulfilling at the same time. Dundee is brave, humble, sensitive, and generous, plus a gourmet chef (he doesn't sing, sorry), so expect a lot of alien food, culture, and the several brushes with death even before the Arcturians show up. Enjoy!

[Deborah S. Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I have read and reread all the books in the Star Commandos series. This prequel is just as wonderful and a great addition. I can't wait for more. please keep up the good work Ms Griffin.